Feast of St Paul in Istanbul

The Consulate General of Malta in Istanbul celebrated the feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck on February 10 at the Franciscan Catholic church of St Anthony of Padua, located in Istiklal Caddesi, a famous avenue in the city of Istanbul.

Consul General of Malta in Istanbul Reuben Gauci, accompanied by his family, attended Mass at St Anthony of Padua church, which was celebrated by the Catholic Bishop of Istanbul, Mgr Louis Pelatre.

Mass was also attended by Maltese citizens and people of Maltese descent living in Turkey. A delegation from the AK Party, currently in government in Turkey, was also present.

After Mass, Mr Gauci invited Beyoglu mayor Ahmet Misbah Demircan to open an exhibition on the veneration of St Paul in Malta. Mr Gauci said St Paul was born in the city of Tarsus, which today can be found in the Turkish Republic. He added that in Malta St Paul was regarded as a spiritual father of faith and that his shipwreck was celebrated with great piety.

The director of the Franciscan Catholic church of St Anthony, Fr Iulian Pista, OFM Conv., was also among the guests.